Program Details

Students enroll in one of the following programs:
• American Politics
• Economic Policy
• Foreign Policy
• International Business and Trade
• International Environment and Development
• International Law and Organizations
• Journalism
• Justice
• Public Law
• Transforming Communities

All the Washington Semester program (WSP) include the same basic format:  a seminar (2 units of credit), an internship (1 unit of credit) and an independent research project (1 unit of credit)

FORMAT:
Seminars: The seminars for all the Washington Semester programs are interactive, dynamic learning forums that allow students to discuss issues with top policy makers and practitioners on site. The seminars consist of meetings with these guest speakers, weekly readings, and lectures by the professor that prepare students for the upcoming meetings. You are evaluated on participation, examinations, and a series of short analytical papers.

Internships: The internship is a vital component of the WSP experience. Students gain firsthand, practical experience. The Washington Semester Program has the largest database of Washington, D.C. internship opportunities. A complete list of possible internships is available in the Center for International and Intercultural Studies. The WSP assists you with your placement, sponsors you, maintains contact with your office/agency supervisor, and provides a class to augment the work experience. The working component of your internship is 16 - 20 hours per week. Academic requirements and the evaluation of the student's work performance by the on-site supervisor determine the final grade.

Research Projects: The research project allows students the opportunity to explore an issue in-depth that is of particular interest to them. Washington offers unparalleled opportunities for gathering the most up-to-date research. The prime sources of information for a project are likely to be government documents and hearings and personal interviews with key decision makers. As stated in #1 under SLU Credit (below), students design their research projects in consultation with an SLU faculty member.